First Time Builders

Builder Information

The first thing to do for a first time builder in San Juan County is to visit the Department of Community and Development - either in person or online. DCD located in Friday Harbor at 135 Rhone Street. You can visit their websiteHERE.

There are a few basic fire and life safety rules that all new buildings must meet:

Driveways and access roads must be at least 12 feet wide with approved turn-arounds and grades that comply with San Juan County codes

New structures must have smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors installed prior to occupancy.

Structures with more than 4,000 square feet of floor area must be protected by a fire sprinkler system.

General Builder Information

Local amendments to the building codes that have been adopted by the State of Washington can be found in the County Code

Permit/Fire Documents

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Building To Fire Code

Make sure your architect, engineer and draftsman are incorporating the latest building codes and fire standards into your building and site plans. Contact us for plan review or more information.

Fire Marshal Permit Process

The Fire Marshal's office is located in the Department of Community Development (DCD). All building, fire suppression, and alarm permit applications are processed through DCD. The builder can work directly with DCD and the Fire Marshal throughout the entire process.